ATM currency cassette door arrangement

ABSTRACT

An ATM includes a currency note dispenser having a currency cassette, a note picker, a note transporter, and a note presenter. A cassette tambour door automatically opens during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser. The picker can pick notes through the opening. A spring loaded housing wall tab retains the picker shaft in mating connection with a drive pin. The transporter can move notes vertically and horizontally. The transporter includes belts between an idle shaft and a drive shaft. The idle shaft is vertically movable relative to a drive shaft to maintain belt tension. The transporter also includes convexly tapered rollers that automatically recenter a loose belt. A presenter gate is at a note dispensing outlet of the ATM. The gate is opened by actuating a lever linked with an arm connected to the gate. The gate opens by moving a pin upward in an angled slot.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/453,609 filed Mar. 10, 2003, and the disclosure thereof isincorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to automated banking machines.

BACKGROUND ART

Automated banking machines are known in the prior art. One type ofautomated banking machine, known as an automated teller machine (ATM),allows a bank customer to conduct banking transactions without thenecessity of a banking employee directly taking part. Such transactionsmight include making deposits to accounts, checking balances,transferring finds, obtaining a cash withdrawal, or obtaining otheritems. As used herein, the phrase automated banking machine (orautomated transaction machine) is not intended to limit the scope of thedisclosure, but may include any type of device that enables automatingtransactions involving transfers representative of value.

Other types of automated banking machines may be used to dispensecurrency to a customer, bank teller, cashier or other service provider.Automated banking machines may be used to dispense various types ofitems to customers. Some types of automated banking machines maydispense items such as tickets, coupons, vouchers, or other items ofvalue. Automated banking machines generally store a multitude of suchitems in a fashion enabling the machine to quickly deliver one or moreitems without error. Some automated banking machines may accept depositsin the form of envelopes, checks, cash, or other items. Some automatedbanking machines may be used for providing credit, making bill payments,or to debit or deposit funds in various accounts.

The devices enabling storage and delivery of the sheet items may attimes require replenishing, maintenance, or repair. In automated bankingmachines such as those made by Diebold, Incorporated, the assignee ofthe present invention, sheet items that are dispensed are generally heldin cassettes. The cassettes are enabled to be replaced by authorizedpersonnel who have gained access to a secure chest portion of themachine which houses the cassettes. This enables authorized personnel toquickly replenish items to be dispensed. This can be done by replacingthe cassettes or by removing the cassettes, adding sheets thereto andreinstalling the cassettes.

While replenishing sheet items may readily be accomplished, it issometimes necessary to conduct more extensive maintenance or repairactivities. In the event repair or replacement of certain components ofthe machine are necessary, the sheet dispenser assembly may need to beremoved from the housing. The weight and delicate nature of somecomponents of the sheet dispenser assembly can make removal andreinstallation of the dispenser mechanism difficult. The dispensermechanism may also include a number of stacked dispenser modules forstoring and selectively dispensing documents stored in the cassettes.The stacked dispenser modules may also need to be disassembled. Veryaccurate positioning and alignment of dispenser mechanism components areoften required for proper operation of the machine, which necessitatescare during reinstallation. The proper alignment and securement ofstacked dispenser modules are also required. All of these requirementsadd to the difficulty in servicing the dispenser mechanism.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

Thus there exists a need for an apparatus and method for more easilyand/or efficiently operating, removing, disassembling, and reinstallinga sheet dispenser assembly of an automated banking machine to facilitateoperation and servicing of components of the machine.

It is an object of an exemplary form of the present invention to providea dispenser assembly for an automated banking machine.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a stackable dispenser module for an automated banking machine.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a stackable multimedia dispenser module for an automated bankingmachine.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a dispenser module which can be locked to another dispensermodule in stacked relation.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a dispenser module which can be locked to another dispensermodule in aligned relation.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a multimedia dispenser module which can be locked to anotherdispenser module in stacked and aligned relation for use in an automatedbanking machine.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide an apparatus which enables a sheet dispenser of an automatedbanking machine to be more readily serviced.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a method of servicing an automated banking machine.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a method of assembling dispenser modules into locked and stackedrelation for a sheet dispenser arrangement of an automated bankingmachine.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a method of disassembling dispenser modules from a locked andstacked relation.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a method of servicing a sheet dispenser of an automated bankingmachine that reduces the time and cost of removing and reinstallingdispenser modules.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide an advanced function dispenser (AFD) having one or moredispenser mechanisms operative to transport media such as currencynotes.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a cassette door and interlocking pin arrangement.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a picker shaft and drive pin releasable connection.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a spring loaded wall tab that is able to retain a picker shaftin connection with a drive pin.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide wire holders formed in a dispenser module wall.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a sheet transporter including belts on an idler shaft and adrive shaft, with the idler shaft biased away from the drive shaft tomaintain the belts in tension.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a sheet transporter including belts trapped in a sheet stackpush plate, with the belts supported on crowned rollers.

It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a presenter gate arrangement, including a cam actuated movablegate, and a flexible rail to roller relationship operative to generate awavy configuration to sheets exiting the presenter.

Further objects of exemplary forms of the present invention will be madeapparent in the following Best Mode for Carrying Out Invention and theappended claims.

The foregoing objects are accomplished in an exemplary form of theinvention which involves an automated banking machine dispenser. Anexemplary dispenser can have a currency cassette, a note picker, a notetransporter, and a note presenter. A cassette door can automaticallyopen during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser. The picker canpick notes through the opening. A picker shaft can be held in biasedmating engagement with a drive pin. The transporter can move notes inperpendicular directions (e.g., vertically and horizontally). Thetransporter can include an idle shaft and a drive shaft with beltstherebetween. The idle shaft can be movable relative to a drive shaft tomaintain belt tension. The transporter can also include tapered rollersthat assist in centering a belt thereon. The presenter can have a gateadjacent a note dispensing outlet. The gate can be opened by actuating alever linked with an arm in operative connection with the gate. Thelever and arm linking can include a pin relatively movable in a slot.

The dispenser can include dispenser modules which house valuabledocuments or sheets (e.g., items). The items may include for example,currency, coupons, tickets, scrip, vouchers, and phone cards. Thedispenser modules include structure which permits their securement toeach other in stacked and aligned relation. Each module includes a pairof side walls. Each module includes a projection plate and a biasinglatch arm on each side wall. The projection plates can be attached tothe side walls. The latches can be cut out from the sidewalls. Eachprojection plate includes a pin. Each side wall includes a slot adaptedto receive a pin.

Biasing tabs can also be cut out from the sidewalls. The tabs can beused to guide and retain the projection plates during the securedstacking of the modules.

During a stacking assembly the plates are operative to compress thelatches. The latches are arranged to snap outward once a plate has slidbeyond latch compression and toward alignment of the module. Once alatch has snapped outward the plate is no longer permitted to move inthe opposite direction to again compress the latch.

Adjacent modules can be locked to each other due to latches preventingthe movement of pins from slots. That is, the projection plates areprevented from movement in a first direction, because the pins wouldengage the side walls, and from movement in a second opposite direction,because the projection plates would engage the latches. The tabs canalso be used to retain the pins in the slots.

Modules can be unlocked by compressing the latches, such as with a tool,to allow movement of the modules relative to each other.

Having easier ability to securely align and stack dispenser modules canfacilitate repairs and/or replacement of dispenser mechanism componentsand/or automated banking machine components by service personnel.Sometimes it is desirable or necessary to entirely remove anddisassemble the dispenser mechanism from the machine for service orreplacement. The present invention provides a method of disassemblingand/or assembling stacked dispenser modules to facilitate repair orreplacement. The exemplary method of the invention also facilitatesinstallation of new or refilled dispenser modules in the machine.Existing dispenser mechanisms for automated banking machines may also beretrofit with dispenser modules of an exemplary form of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an automated banking machine.

FIG. 2 shows an alternative form of an automated banking machine.

FIGS. 3, 4, and 5 show respective front, top, and side views of themachine of FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 shows a further alternative form of an automated banking machine.

FIGS. 7 and 8 show respective top and side views of the machine of FIG.6.

FIG. 9 shows a portion of an automated banking machine.

FIG. 10 shows an additional portion of an automated banking machine.

FIG. 11 is an isometric exploded view of a secure chest portion with anaccess door open and a dispenser mechanism having locked dispensermodules extended through the opening.

FIG. 12 shows a partial view of removably connected dispenser modules.

FIG. 13 shows a step in a process of connecting dispenser modules.

FIG. 14 also shows another step in a process of connecting dispensermodules.

FIG. 15 shows a partial end view of adjacent side walls of connecteddispenser modules.

FIG. 16 shows an alternative end view of side walls of connecteddispenser modules.

FIG. 17 shows a dispenser module with a plurality of releasable lockingarrangements.

FIG. 18 shows a partial view of removably connected alternativedispenser modules.

FIG. 19 shows an alternative form of stacked dispenser module portions.

FIG. 20 is a different angled view of a dispenser module of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 shows a media cassette.

FIG. 22 shows a view of a tambour door portion of a cassette.

FIG. 23 shows an interlocking pin.

FIG. 24 shows another view of the interlocking pin of FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 shows a step in a door opening process.

FIG. 26 shows another step in the door opening process.

FIG. 27 shows a further step in the door opening process.

FIG. 28 shows a partial bottom view of a cassette with a door in apartly opened position.

FIG. 29 shows a partial bottom view of a cassette with a door in a fullyopened position.

FIG. 30 shows a dispenser module picker mechanism arrangement.

FIG. 31 shows a drive pin having a key.

FIG. 32 shows an alternative view of the drive pin of FIG. 31

FIG. 33 shows a picker shaft having a key hole.

FIG. 34 shows the drive pin of FIG. 32 and the picker shaft of FIG. 33in a mating arrangement.

FIG. 35 shows an alternative picker shaft and drive pin matingarrangement.

FIG. 36 shows a drive pin having a key and key hole.

FIG. 37 shows a picker shaft having a key and key hole.

FIG. 38 shows the drive pin of FIG. 36 and the picker shaft of FIG. 37in a mating arrangement.

FIG. 39 shows a dispenser module without the picker shaft.

FIG. 40 shows stacked dispenser modules having formed wire supports.

FIG. 41 shows a view of a lower portion of a vertical transportmechanism.

FIG. 42 shows a view of the upper portion of the vertical transportmechanism.

FIG. 43 shows another view of the upper portion.

FIG. 44 shows an additional view of the upper portion.

FIG. 45 shows a view of drive shaft rollers.

FIG. 46 shows a partial view of a horizontal transport mechanism.

FIG. 47 shows a presenter belt and push plate arrangement.

FIG. 48 shows a presenter gate arrangement with a gate in a closedposition.

FIG. 49 shows an additional view of a gate in a closed position.

FIG. 50 shows a presenter gate arrangement with a gate in an openposition.

FIG. 51 shows an alternative view of a presenter gate in an openposition.

FIG. 52 shows another view of a presenter gate in an open position.

FIG. 53 shows a further view of a presenter gate in an open position.

FIG. 54 shows a sheet stack adjacent to a presenter exit passage.

FIG. 55 shows an alternative sheet stack adjacent to a presenter exitpassage.

FIG. 56 shows a view of an end of a flexible rail.

FIG. 57 shows an alternative view of the flexible rail.

FIG. 58 shows a sheet stack receiving a wavy impartation.

FIG. 59 shows an alternative sheet stack adjacent rail waffles.

FIG. 60 shows an alternative view of a gate and a gate arrangement.

FIG. 61 shows an angled view of a dual cam arm arrangement.

FIG. 62 shows an alternative view of the dual cam arm arrangement.

FIG. 63 shows a presenter frame shell.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1 there is showntherein an automated banking machine, generally indicated by numeral 10,used in connection with an exemplary form of the present invention. Theautomated banking machine 10 can be an automated teller machine (ATM).The automated banking machine 10 includes a customer interface portion(e.g., fascia) and a document delivery portion.

The customer interface portion can be supported by an upper housing 11and/or a lower housing 20, such as by attachment to the upper housing11. The interface portion can include a display 12, such as a CRT screenor other output devices for providing outputs such as visual messagesand prompts to a customer or user. The interface can also include inputdevices, such as a keypad 13, function buttons 14, and a card reader 15.The customer fascia can also include a receipt outlet 16 and may includeother or different transaction function devices.

A document delivery portion of the machine 10 can be contained within asecure chest or lower housing 20. An opening 19 can be provided fordelivery of sheets, such as currency notes, or other items to a user ofthe machine.

FIG. 2 shows another form of an automated banking machine generallyindicated 110. The automated banking machine can be an ATM. However,other exemplary forms of the invention may use other types of automatedbanking machines. ATM 110 includes a fascia 112 which serves as a useror customer interface. The fascia includes a card slot 114, keypad 116,function keys 118, display 120, receipt outlet slot 122, mini accountstatement outlet 124, document (e.g., cash) withdrawal opening 126,document deposit opening 128, and a writing shelf 129.

Card slot 114 can be used to input a card having encoded data thereonthat is usable to identify the customer and/or the customer's accountinformation. Card slot 114 provides entry to a card reader input devicefor reading data encoded on the card. The machine may also include otherinput devices such as biometric readers that may be operative to receivecustomer identifying inputs such as fingerprints, iris scans, retinascans, face topography data, voice data, or other inputs that providedata that is usable to identify a user. An example of an ATM that usesbiometric input devices and other types of input devices is shown inU.S. Pat. No. 6,023,688, the disclosure of which has been fullyincorporated herein by reference.

Keypad 116 includes a plurality of keys which may be actuated by acustomer to provide inputs to the machine. Function keys 118 can be usedto permit a customer to respond to screen prompts. The display 120 maybe a touch screen display which enables outputs through displays on thescreen and enables customers to provide inputs by placing a fingeradjacent to areas of the screen. Outlets 122, 124 may also be used todispense other items from ticket printing mechanisms, check printingmechanisms, and other devices that operate to apply indicia to media inthe course of performing transactions carried out with the machine.Various types of input and output devices may be included on userinterfaces. Generally, in the case of an automated banking machine atleast one input device is used to receive inputs that identify a userand/or an account. It should be understood that these features of thedescribed ATM user interface are exemplary and in other forms of theinvention the user interface may include different components and/orfeatures and/or arrangements. For example, a different arrangement mayhave the locations of the receipt outlet slot and the mini statementoutlet switched. Likewise, the card slot and the receipt outlet slot maybe switched.

FIGS. 3, 4, and 5 show respective front, top, and side views of the ATM110 of FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 shows another form of an automated banking machine generallyindicated 130. The automated banking machine has a customer interfacewhich includes a card reader slot 132, keypad 134, function keys 136,display 138, receipt outlet slot 140, mini statement outlet 142,document (cash) withdrawal opening 144, document deposit opening 146,and a bulk document deposit opening 148.

FIGS. 7 and 8 show respective top and side views of the automatedbanking machine 130 of FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 shows a further form of a portion of an automated banking machinegenerally indicated 150. FIG. 9 shows a customer interface 152 similarto that of FIG. 2, including a card reader slot 154, keypad 156, receiptoutlet slot 158, mini statement outlet 160, document (e.g., cash)withdrawal opening 162, document deposit opening 164, and writing shelf(or supply tray) 166. With use of a touch screen in display area 168, itmay not be necessary to have function keys adjacent the screen.

FIG. 10 shows an additional form of a portion of an automated bankingmachine generally indicated 170. FIG. 10 shows a customer interfaceincluding a card reader slot 172, keypad 174, touch screen display area178, receipt outlet slot 180, mini statement outlet 182, document (cash)withdrawal opening 184, coin dispenser (or acceptor) opening 186,document deposit opening 188, and a bulk document deposit opening 189.

Of course it should be understood that the type and locations ofparticular inlets and outlets of the fascias shown herein are exemplary,and that other arrangements and configurations may be used. That is, thedescribed ATM user interfaces are exemplary and in other exemplaryembodiments the user interface may include different components and/orfeatures and/or arrangements. For example, a different arrangement mayhave the locations of the receipt outlet slot and the mini statementoutlet switched. Likewise, a card slot and a receipt outlet slot may beswitched. An envelope storage holder may also be added thereto orsubstituted for therein in other arrangements.

Other exemplary embodiments of automated banking machines may have adifferent type of customer interface portion. For example, otherexemplary embodiments may not include a customer fascia on or adjacentto a chest portion. Such alternative machines may be operated asdocument delivery devices only. Such exemplary embodiments may be usedto deliver sheets or documents to a cashier, bank teller, or otherservice provider. Such alternative exemplary embodiments may alsoinclude a remotely positioned operator interface which can selectivelycause documents to be delivered from a disposed machine.

FIG. 11 shows an exemplary form of a secure chest portion 21 of anautomated banking machine (e.g., ATM). Any of the previously discussedautomated banking machines may include a secure chest portion in themanner shown in FIG. 11. The chest 21 encloses a secure area 22. Chest21 includes an upper wall 23 which can support the upper housing and thecustomer interface portion of an automated banking machine. For example,the upper wall 23 could support the upper housing 11 and the customerinterface portion of the automated banking machine 10 shown in FIG. 1.Chest 21 also has a service opening 24, and a door 25 which canselectively close the opening 24. When the banking machine is in use,the area 22 is closed by the door 25 and is secured and locked throughuse of a locking device 26. Any of a number of known devices may be usedas a locking device 26 to secure the door in a closed position.

The secure area 22 of the chest 21 can be used to house numerouscomponents of the banking machine. One of these components can be adispenser, generally indicated by numeral 27. The dispenser 27 caninclude removable cassettes 28, 29, 30, and 31. The cassettes can holdvaluable documents or other sheet materials or media, such as currency,travelers checks, coupons, scrip, vouchers, wagering slips, stamps,tickets, sheets, and phone cards. Thus, a dispenser may be a multimediadispenser. Each cassette can have a picker mechanism associatedtherewith which can selectively operate to remove items, such ascurrency notes, from the cassette. The construction of the exemplaryembodiment shown is such that two cassettes can be removably mounted ina dispenser frame or module 33. Although the dispenser 27 is shown ashaving two dispenser modules 33, a dispenser module may have more orfewer cassettes. Any number of dispenser modules may be included in abanking machine. Of course the number of dispenser modules may belimited by the physical size of the chest 21. Although an exemplaryembodiment has two cassettes and document pickers per dispenser module,other exemplary embodiments may have other numbers or arrangements ofdispenser modules, cassettes, and pickers.

Dispenser modules 33 can be secured together in stacked relation. Adocument presenter 35 can be attached to the top of a stack of dispensermodules. A presenter can be used to present one or more documents to auser of the machine. Stacked dispenser modules are shown in U.S. Pat.No. 6,293,540, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein byreference. Exemplary cassette and picker mechanism structures are shownin U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,099,423 and 5,141,127, the disclosures of which areincorporated herein by reference. The stacked relation allows documentsfrom the cassettes to be picked from the cassettes and delivered to thepresenter 35. Documents may be selectively moved by the presenterthrough an opening 32 to a user of the machine. Each of the cassettes28, 29, 30, 31 inside the dispenser 27 can be independently removabletherefrom. Each cassette holding location in the dispenser 27 caninclude a document picker mechanism and belt feed which can operate todeliver documents to the presenter 35. The dispenser of the exemplaryform can include a plurality of feed rolls, belts, and other movablemembers for selectively engaging and moving documents. Motors and otherdrive devices can operate to move these movable members. The drivedevices can operate in response to signals from a terminal controller,which can include one or more computers, which can control thedispensing of documents from the machine. An exemplary form of acontroller and a control system for an automated banking machine isshown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,505,177, the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference.

The dispenser 27, which can include the document presenter (or feeder)35 and the dispenser modules 33, can be releasably engaged to a pair ofslides 40. The slides can be mounted in supporting connection with theinside of the chest 21. This construction enables the slides and thusthe dispenser 27 to be extended and retracted through the opening 24into and out of the chest 21. In the operative position of the bankingmachine the dispenser 27 is supported by the slides 40. In an exemplaryembodiment the dispenser 27 is releasably engaged with the slides and isremovable therefrom when the dispenser is extended on the slides outsideof the chest. The dispenser 27 can be disengageable from the slides bymoving the dispenser upward relative to the slides.

When the banking machine is in use, the door 25 is closed. The slides 40can be retracted resulting in the document feeder 35 and the dispensermodules 33 being within the secure chest 21. The door 25 can be securedin a closed position with the lock device 26. Documents or other itemscan be dispensed responsive to signals from the terminal controller anddelivered by the presenter 35 to a user through the opening 32 which canextend through the door 25.

It may be easily understood that the multitude of cooperating drives,feeders, movable members, and devices used in a dispenser to deliverdocuments to a user could malfunction. Periodic replacement ormaintenance of certain components within the dispenser is also desirableto assure reliable operation. Thus, it may also be desirable in somecircumstances to change the number and/or type of cassettes and pickermechanisms to accommodate different denominations of currency, coupons,stamps, or other documents. It may also be desirable to replace orupgrade a dispenser. All of these activities can require procedures tobe performed on the machine dispenser. Alternatively, it may bedesirable to gain access to components in the chest of the bankingmachine which are rendered difficult to access due to the presence ofthe dispenser in the chest.

The slides 40 enable service personnel to extend the dispenser 27through the opening 24 once the door 25 has been opened. Extending thedispenser outward provides enhanced access to components of thedispenser for servicing. However, in some instances, access to certaincomponents of the dispenser or components in the chest cannot be easilyobtained even with the dispenser extended through the opening 24. Inthese cases, it would be desirable to disengage the dispenser 27 fromthe slides 40 and move the dispenser in order for work to be performed,or even to possibly replace the dispenser. In other cases, the dispensermay need to be disassembled, including the unstacking of dispensermodules. The dispenser may then need to be reassembled, including thestacking of dispenser modules.

An exemplary embodiment provides for the aligning, stacking, andsecuring together of dispenser modules, yet also permits the dispensermodules to be easily unstacked. In some exemplary arrangements thedispenser modules can be assembled in stacked relation and disassembledquickly therefrom without the use of tools. Dispenser modules can beassembled in a stacked relation either initially (e.g., new dispensermodule, new dispenser, etc.) or during a reassembling process. Asdescribed hereinafter in further detail, a releasable lockingarrangement can be used to position, align, and secure stacked dispensermodules together. A similar locking arrangement may also be used tosecure the uppermost dispenser module to the document presenter. FIG. 11shows a releasable locking arrangement, generally indicated by numeral48, for adjacent dispenser modules 33.

FIG. 12 shows dispenser modules 50, 51 secured together in a stackedrelation or arrangement. Each dispenser module 50, 51 of the exemplaryembodiment of FIG. 12 includes at least one projection 52, latch 54, andtab 56. The dispenser modules can be identical or they can differ, suchas in dimensions (e.g., height). The modules of FIG. 12 may be stackedby being snapped together. In other exemplary embodiments a designatedtop dispenser module may be without a projection. Likewise, in furtherexemplary embodiments a designated lowermost dispenser module may bewithout a latch and/or a guide. For ease of description, only one sidewall 55 of a module need be described. The opposite side wall of amodule may be symmetrical with the described side wall.

Dispenser modules 50 can have a body, or a portion thereof, of materialstructurally sufficient to support the media contained therein. Forexample, a module body may comprise metal, plastic, polymer, fiberglass,resin, wood, or glass, or combinations thereof. A module body maycomprise sheet metal. A module body may also be formed of a clearmaterial that permits viewing therethrough.

A dispenser module 50 can include a cutout portion, opening, passage, orslot 58. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 12 the slot 58 has theshape of an inverted L. Alternatively, a slot may have other shapes.

A projection 52 can comprise a member, such as a plate, which functionsto extend from a module. A projection member 52 permits a first module51 to be removably latched or locked to an adjacent module 50 when themodules are in properly stacked alignment. A projection member 52 can beattached to a module or be of one piece with the module. Attaching orfastening may include known techniques, such as welding, screwing,bolting, use of nuts, etc.

As shown in more detail in FIGS. 15 and 16, a projection can project orextend from a module relatively flush with the module side wall. Theprojection may be biased toward remaining flush with the module sidewall. Alternatively, a projection may extend outward away from a moduleside wall at a predetermined angle. For example, a projection may havean outwardly bias. In such case, a tab can act to hold, pull, or retaina projection member adjacent a side wall. A projection member may alsobe tapered at the top thereof to assist in slidingly engaging anadjacent module.

The projection member 52 includes an inwardly projecting pin 60. Theprojecting pin 60 can comprise a dowel pin or bolt or shaft. The pin 60is of a length permitting its extension through a side wall 55 of anadjacent module. The pin 60 can be flanged at one or both ends. In anexemplary embodiment the pin has a flanged end 62 in fixed connectionwith the projection plate member 52. Alternatively the pin 60 may befreely movable relative to the projection plate member 52. The pin 60 isadapted to extend both vertically and horizontally in the slot 58 of amodule 50, 51. An inner flanged end 64 of the pin 60 is adapted tolocking engage the side wall of an adjacent module.

A latch or retainer or arm 54 can be cutout from a module body 50, 51. Aguide or tab 56 can also be cutout from a module body. Alternatively, alatch and/or a guide can be separately fastened to a module body. Bothlatch 54 and guide 56 can be biasing members. For example, both a latcharm 54 and a tab 56 can be springs (e.g., latch spring and tab spring).Both a latch 54 and a guide 56 can have an unbiased position, such asthe position shown in the lower module 50 of FIG. 12. As discussed inmore detail herein, a latch 54 can be used to latch or lock a dispensermodule projection member 52 in stacked position, and thus lock theadjacent modules in stack position. A tab 56 can be used to guide oralign a dispenser module projection member, and thus the modules, duringstacking securement. A tab 56 can also be used to retain a projection 52from (outward) movement away from its side wall.

An exemplary operation of assembling secured stacked dispenser moduleswill now be described. In the exemplary operation the engagement andmovement of securing components can (symmetrically) simultaneously occuron each side of the modules.

A first dispenser module 51 can be placed relatively onto a seconddispenser module 50, as shown in FIG. 13. In this step a latch arm 54 ofthe first dispenser module 51 is biased or compressed back into the sidewall 55 of the first dispenser module 51. This biased position may beachieved by the first module being lowered onto the second module at theposition shown. Alternatively, the first module 51 may be placedrelatively onto the second module 50 upstream of the shown position(i.e., the projection 52 being further away from the tab 56) and thenslid toward the shown position. The initial starting position may alsovary based on how far a projection 52 is angled away from its side wall.For example, a projection 52 attached flush with its side wall may haveto start in a position (further upstream) so that the projection 52avoids abutting engagement with an outwardly biased latch arm 54. Thatis, a module may have to be lowered (or raised) at a location thatpermits its lowering, i.e., the projection 52 is clear of contact with alatch arm 54. Alternatively, a module may be placed relatively ontoanother module without any lowering, e.g., the modules can behorizontally slid relative to each other.

In a next step, as shown in FIG. 14, the first module 51 can be slidfurther toward an aligned stacked relation with the second module 50. Inthis position the projections 52 of the second dispenser module 50 haverespectively entered between the tabs 56 and the side walls 55 of thefirst module 51. Similarly, the pins 60 have entered the slots 58. Thetab 56 can be used to guide, align, or biasingly retain a projection 52during the secured stacking operation. For example, the tabs 56 can beused to bias the projections 52 toward a flush arrangement with the sidewalls 55. Also, other exemplary arrangements may have arrangements inwhich the pins enter the slots before or after the projections enterbehind the tabs.

In a final step, as shown in FIG. 12, the first module 51 is slidfurther into aligned stacked relation with the second module 50. In thisposition the projections 52 of the second dispenser module 50 remainbehind the tabs 56 of the first module 51. Furthermore, the pins 60 haveslid (horizontally) in the slots 58 and their inner flanged ends 64 arein retaining engagement with the side walls of the first module 51.Additionally, the projections 52 have slid past the latch arms 54. Thus,the latch arms 54 (which are no longer compressed) have again becomeoutwardly biased. That is, the latch arms 54 have snapped outwardly toprevent the projections 52 from disengaging movement in the directiontoward the latch arms. Thus, the latch arms prevent the movement of thepins from the slots 58. It follows that the pin/slot arrangements andthe latch/projection arrangements securely lock the adjacent modules 50,51 in aligned and stacked relation.

In an exemplary form of module stacking, a second dispenser module isplaced on and locked to a first dispenser module to create a dispensermodule stack portion. Thereafter, a third dispenser module is placed onand locked to the already created dispenser module stack portion. Theprocess can be repeated until the desired secured and aligned modulestack is complete.

An exemplary operation of disassembling secured stacked dispensermodules will now be described. After the latch arms 54 are biasedinwardly (i.e., compressed) then the projections 52 can again be movedoutside of or into a position overlapping the compressed latch arms 54.The latch arms may be compressed by hand. In other exemplary embodimentsuse of a tool may be more convenient or necessary to compress the latcharms. The dispenser modules can then be moved (e.g., horizontally)relative to each other until the pins 60 are aligned in a position for(e.g., vertical) removal from the slot 58 (e.g., the position shown inFIG. 14). Thereafter, the dispenser modules can be moved (e.g.,vertically) relative to (away from) each other to disengage the modules.The pins can be removed by passing vertically through a lower portion ofthe slot, which portion extends (horizontally) inwardly.

Alternatively, stack modules may be disassembled by reversing thepreviously discussed assembly steps. For example, the latch 54 can becompressed far enough to permit the plate 52 (and the pin 60 therewith)to slide past.

FIG. 15 shows a partial end view of adjacent side walls 70, 72 ofconnected dispenser modules. A relationship of a projection member 74,an inner flanged pin end 76, a tab 78, and adjacent side walls 70, 72 isalso shown.

FIG. 16 shows an alternative partial end view of side walls 80, 82 ofconnected dispenser modules. A projection plate 84 is shown fastened toa side wall 80 via a screw 86. The projection plate 84 is also shownhaving a tapered end 88 and an extended pin 89.

FIG. 17 shows a portion of a dispenser module 90 including a pluralityof releasable locking arrangements. The dispenser module 90 includesside walls, each having plural projections 92, latch arms 94, slots 96,tabs 98, and pins 99.

FIG. 18 shows a portion of removably connected alternative dispensermodules 100, 102. The modules are similar to those of FIG. 12, excepttabs are absent and (correspondingly) the projections 104, 106 are ofsmaller size. It should be understood that the sizes and locations ofthe projections, latches, tabs, pins, and slots may vary for differentmodules. For example, a stack of modules may have vertically alternating(relatively) small and large sized projections. That is, the lowermostmodule may have small sized projections and the next level module mayhave large sized projections. The other module structure (e.g., latches,slots, etc.) may also be sized to correspond to the sized projections ofthe adjacent modules.

FIGS. 19 and 20 show additional exemplary embodiments of a dispensermodule portion 190. The modules of FIG. 19 may be stacked by beingsnapped together. Each of FIGS. 19 and 20 include a shaped tab 192 andat least one side wall pin 194. The tab 192 can be shaped (e.g., bent,corrugated, or curved) to provide additional engaging or biasing force,e.g., spring force. The pin 194, as shown more fully in FIG. 20, can beused to provide alignment of the module with the dispenser. That is, thepin 194 may act as a guide pin to engage a corresponding guide slot (orgroove or rail) of the dispenser into which the module is inserted. Thepin 194 may also be used during the handling and lifting of the module.That is, the pin may be used for guidance or engagement in positioningof the module during transport. FIG. 19 also shows that latch arms 196need only be adjacent to one end of a module. The module end withoutlatch arms can still have a slot 198, such as an inverted L-shaped slot.A dispenser module 190 can also include side walls 191, projectionmember 193, and a projection member pin 195.

Furthermore, the locking arrangements of all the modules in a stack mayvary so that the stack may only be assembled one way. That is, the orderof the modules in a stack can be determined by their predeterminedlocking arrangements. Thus, service personnel can be prevented fromincorrectly stacking modules.

An exemplary embodiment provides for the capability of using removablylockable multimedia dispenser modules to facilitate the servicing ofautomated banking machine dispenser mechanisms. The exemplaryarrangement can permit easier, faster, and less expensive access todispenser mechanism components to facilitate repairs and/or replacementthereof by service personnel. The exemplary arrangement can also providea method of separating and removing stacked modules of a dispenserassembly to facilitate repair or replacement. An exemplary method alsofacilitates aligning and releasably locking together the modules of adispenser mechanism in an automated banking machine, such as an ATM.

While the exemplary embodiments described herein include particularstructures to achieve the desirable results, those having skill in theart may devise numerous other exemplary embodiments with otherstructures which employ the same inventive principles described hereinand which are encompassed by the subject matter as claimed. For exampleand without limitation, other embodiments may include other types andshapes of modules, projections, pins, latches, slots, tabs, fasteners,material, or other structures. Further, the structures described hereinare not intended to limit the scope of the present application to theparticular structures described herein.

As previously discussed, a media cassette or canister can be removablymounted in an automated banking machine (e.g., ATM) dispenser module.FIG. 21 shows an exemplary form of a media (e.g., currency note)cassette. The cassette 200 includes at least one indicator buttoncontact area 202 comprising a plurality of indicator buttons. Forexample, the button area may include a media low indicator button 204.The use and operation of information indication buttons for a cassetteis described in detail in the disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 4,871,085,which is incorporated herein by reference.

The cassette also includes a door 208. The door has a flexible orbendable portion. In an exemplary form of the invention, the doorincludes a tambour door section 210. The tambour section 210 cancomprise a flexible corrugated or shutter-like arrangement having anumber of thick parallel strips integrally attached together by thinnerparallel links or webs. The tambour section can comprise an integralone-piece construction having alternating strips and links, with thestrips and links parallel to each other. The strips can be rigid,whereas the links can be pliable. Hence, the door can bend at thethinner links. Tambour section materials can include plastic, metal,polymers, and/or vinyl, such as polyvinylchloride (“PVC”). However, inalternative exemplary embodiments other types of doors, flexible doorsections (e.g., smooth non-tambour), and door materials (e.g., shapememory alloy, non-PVC polymers, plastic embedded with metal forstrength, etc.) may be used.

The tambour door 210 can be arranged in the cassette housing for openingin a recessing or retracting manner. For example, the tambour door shownin FIG. 21 can be opened by moving in a first direction (vertically)downwardly and then curving into another direction (horizontally)underneath the cassette. The flexible door 210 may be able to move intwo substantially perpendicular directions. The cassette housing canhave a guide or track in which the tambour door 210 can ride during itsopening and closing. For example, the sides of the door may be set incassette housing supports or grooves which enable the door to sliderelative to the cassette housing.

Opening of the door can permit a picker mechanism to be properlypositioned to access and pick media (e.g., currency bills) from thecassette. As explained in more detail hereinafter, a cassette tambourdoor of an exemplary embodiment may be automatically opened duringinsertion of the cassette into its operating position in a dispensermodule. It should be understood that the particular tambour doordiscussed herein is exemplary and that other sized and shaped tambourdoors corresponding to other sized and shaped cassettes may also beused. However, the tambour doors may function in a similar manner duringopening and closing.

FIG. 22 shows a view of the tambour door section 210 in a closedposition. A bottom portion 212 of the cassette housing frame is alsoshown in FIG. 22. The cassette housing includes a slot (or groove) 214therein. The slot extends in a direction away from the closed tambourdoor. As explained in more detail hereinafter, the slot is operative foruse in opening the tambour door.

As shown in FIG. 22, the tambour door 210 includes an opening (or holeor groove) 216. The opening's face can be substantially parallel to theface of the closed tambour door and substantially perpendicular to theslot direction. The door 210 further includes a lip or flange 218extending adjacent to (e.g., beneath) the opening. The lip's face canalso be substantially parallel to the face of the closed tambour doorand substantially perpendicular to the slot direction. A portion of thedoor lip 218 is operative to be moved in the slot 214.

The opening 216 is operative to receive a portion of a push pin 220.Additional views of the exemplary pin 220 are shown in FIGS. 23 and 24.The pin may be fixed, such as fastened (e.g., bolted) into a dispensermodule. For example the pin may have screw holes or bolt holes 226. Thepin 220 functions to relatively push the tambour door 210 to an openposition.

The pin 220 can include a head portion 222 and a body portion 224. Thepin 220 is operative to gear with a tambour door section to causerelative movement of the tambour door. The pin head 222 is operative tokey or protrude into the opening 216 so that the pin body 224 can engage(or abut) the door lip 218. The pin head-to-opening mating relationshipcan respectively comprise a male to female type of relationship. The pinhead-to-opening relationship assists in preventing slippage of the pinbody relative to the lip. It should be understood that the pin head canpass through the opening 216 with or without passing entirely throughthe door. For example, a door can have an indented closed member withone side open (i.e., an opening). The pin head 222 can pass through theopen side and be received in the closed member. The closed member can bebox-like with only one open side (e.g., like a cave).

The lip 218 may have flanges to guide and/or partially surround the pinbody 224. For example, the lip may have tapered side flanges 219 tofacilitate guidance of the pin body 224. The pin may have a relativelysmooth and wavy contour. Such contour may be beneficial during contactwith ridges of a tambour door.

The tambour section 210 of the door 208 can also have an open channelarea leading to the opening and lip area. A channel 228 enables the pinto extend through the tambour section of the door to reach the openingand lip while the door is still in a fully closed position. In anexemplary arrangement, the channel 228 can be sized to receive the pinbody 224 therein. For example, when the door is in a fully openposition, the pin head 222 can extend through the door opening 216 andthe pin body 224 can be entirely located in the channel 228. The channel228 can have at least one taper to facilitate guidance of the pin intothe channel and the door opening. For example, a taper may be on a sidewall of the channel. The pin head can also include one or more taperedsurfaces to assist in guiding the pin head into the channel and the dooropening. FIG. 21 also shows a tapered channel 228, opening 216, and lip218.

During an exemplary door opening operation, as the cassette 200 isinserted into a dispenser module the pin head 222 extends into the dooropening 216 and the pin body 224 engages the door lip 218. With furtherinsertion of the cassette, the pin-to-lip engagement prevents the doorfrom proceeding in the insertion direction along with the cassette.Therefore, further movement of the cassette into the dispenser moduleresults in the door 210 being further opened. The degree or percentageof a door actually opened can be determined based on the insertiondistance of the cassette in the dispenser module. Magnitude of dooropenness can be directly proportional to cassette insertion distance.

The pin 220 acts relative to the cassette to push against the lip 218 toopen the cassette door. The cassette and pin relationship can bepredetermined such that when the cassette is fully inserted the door isfully open. The cassette slot 214 can also be of a predetermined lengththat permits the door to be fully opened.

With the pin head 222 located through the door opening 216 and the pinbody 224 received in the channel 228, the arrangement provides for thepin 220 and tambour door 210 to be in a mating or interlockingrelationship. The generated lock can be prevented from being removed(opened) until the door is again in a closed position. Removal of thecassette from the dispenser module can cause the door to automaticallyreturn to its closed position. As the cassette is being extracted, thepin body 224 abuts against at least one tambour strip to hold the doorstationary while the cassette is moved. An abutted tambour strip can bethat strip which is closest to the channel 228 but opposite to the doorlip 218. In an alternative arrangement this closest tambour strip canhave a lip to facilitate area engagement with the pin body.

FIG. 25 shows a first step in a door opening process. FIG. 25 is a crosssectional view of the cassette 200 taken through the door channel 228.The door is in a closed position enabling the opening to the channel 228exposed to receive the pin head 222. The cassette 200 has been movedtoward the pin 220 so that the pin head 222 has entered the door channel228. That is, the pin head is located beneath a tambour section, priorto entry into the door opening. The cassette bottom portion 212, whichincludes the previously discussed slot 214, is also shown.

FIG. 26 shows a second step in the door opening process. FIG. 26, likeFIG. 25, is also a cross sectional view taken through the door channel.The cassette 200 has been further moved toward the pin 220, which inthis example is stationary. The pin head 222 extends into the dooropening 216. The pin body 224 begins to abut the door lip 218. However,in FIG. 26 the door 210 is still in a closed position.

FIG. 27 shows a third step in the door opening process. The cassette 200has been fully inserted. The pin 220 has (relatively) pushed the doorlip 218 adjacent to the distant end of the slot 214. The tambour door210 is in a fully open position. The pin head 222 remains extendedthrough the door opening 216, and the pin body 224 fits in the channel228.

FIG. 28 shows a partial view of the cassette bottom 212 taken with thedoor lip 218 positioned near the entrance to the slot 214. That is, thetambour door section 210 is in a partly opened position. The taperedchannel 228 and a substantially flat (non-tambour) portion 209 of thedoor 208 are also shown. The flat portion 209 can provide a secure coverfor the slot 214 when the door is closed. The door lip 218 may beintegrally formed with the flat portion 209. A portion of the door lip218 may extend from the flat portion 209 a distance substantially equalto the thickness of cassette bottom 212 (and the slot 214). Thus, thedoor lip 218 can be arranged so that it does not extend past the bottom212 of the cassette housing.

FIG. 29 shows a partial view of the cassette bottom 212 taken with thedoor lip 218 at the end of the slot 214. That is, the tambour door 210is in a fully opened position. A tapered pin head 222 (in broken lines)and a pin body 224 are also shown. A part of the furthest-insertedportion of the tambour door 210 can be viewed through the slot 214,whereas the cassette bottom 212 hides the remainder of the furthestinserted portion.

The relationship of the door and pin also includes a security feature.If the tambour door 210 has been prematurely moved (opened) apredetermined distance, such as due to tampering, then the pin 220 willnot be able to enter the door channel 228. A door that has been slightly(or greatly) opened causes a tambour portion thereof to curve downwardlywhich results in blocked entry of the pin head 222 into the channel 228.That is, the opening to the channel is no longer available to the pinhead because one or more tambour door strips have been moved between thechannel and the pin head to prevent entry of the pin head into thechannel. Nor can the pin head 222 enter the door opening 216. Therefore,the pin 220 would not be able to enter the channel 228, engage the lip218, and open the door 210.

Tampering (or mishandling, etc.) can cause the tambour door 210 tobecome and remain opened. Even a slightly opened door can cause the doorchannel 228 to become misaligned with the pin 220, and prevent thecassette from being fully inserted into a dispenser module. That is, ifthe door is out of alignment (i.e., partly open) prior to insertion,then the pin body 224 will not be able to properly engage the lip 218,and the door cannot be opened by the pin. Rather, the pin head 222 wouldabut against the exterior of a tambour door section (e.g., at the curvedportion). Because a slightly opened tambour door is angularly moved, theopening to the channel 228 would not be properly angularly positioned toreceive entry of the pin head 222. The pin head would push against thedoor exterior (e.g., at a substantially flat or perpendicular angle) andnot be able to enter the channel 228. The relative movement of the pin220 would be stopped by at least one tambour section strip of the door.For example, if the door of FIG. 22 was already partly open, then thepin head 222 would abut a strip section of the door 210 at a locationabove the channel 228. The partly opened door could not be opened viathe pin 220.

In an exemplary arrangement, as a result of the door being partly openand thus misaligned with the pin 220, the cassette cannot be fullyinserted into a dispenser module. Thus, the door-to-pin relationship canact as a tamper indicator. The indicator inherently prevents usage of apotentially compromised cassette in a dispenser. A compromised cassettemay have an inaccurate currency count. The exemplary arrangementprevents a potentially compromised cassette from being inserted into adispenser module. The insertion relationship between the cassette andthe dispenser module can function as an indicator of possible cassettetampering. For example, the unsuccessful insertion of a cassette intothe dispenser module is an indication that the cassette may have beencompromised. A problem cassette can be determined responsive to the lackof expected insertion movement of the cassette relative to thedispenser. The problem cassette can be identified for closer inspection,and if necessary a currency recount or other function can be carriedout.

In an exemplary arrangement a cassette can also have a tamper indicatordevice that operates if an opened cassette door has been returned to theclosed door position. The tamper indicator device or mechanism can bebuilt into the cassette. As previously discussed, the exemplary cassettecan functionally indicate a potential tampering when its door has beenat least partly left open. This is due to misalignment during insertionof the cassette into a dispenser. However, a tampered with cassette mayhave its opened door clandestinely returned to its closed position. Thedoor returned to its closed position may permit alignment of thecassette with the dispenser. The tamper indicator device can be used toreveal this closed-door tampering scenario.

The tamper indicator device can indicate a potential tampering situationby indicating when the door has been returned from an open position tothe closed position. An indicator display arrangement can includeindicia, such as symbols, numbers, and/or colors. Other indicatordisplay arrangements can also be used, such as the current position(e.g., vertical, horizontal, angular, exterior/interior) of an elementor a sole symbol or number. An indicator element may be in the form of apreviously discussed indication button for a cassette. An outwardextending button can indicate a cassette condition different than whenthe button is not extended.

An exemplary indicator arrangement comprises two different indiciacolors arranged adjacent to each other on a movable display. The coloredindicia may be initially displayed as a first color (e.g., green) torepresent a secure door (e.g., no indication of tampering), and laterdisplayed (if necessary) as a second color (e.g., red or orange) torepresent an indication of potential tampering. The indicia display canbe movable parallel or lateral to a face of the cassette. Alternatively,an indicia display may be arranged for rotatable movement. When thedisplay is moved, the color changes. The movable indicia display can belocated at an end of the cassette, such as the end opposite the door.The colored indicia can be visible to service personnel through a clearplastic window. Only one color at a time may be visible through thewindow.

As a result of the door being closed during tampering, the indiciadisplay moves to cause the window to display orange instead of green.That is, the indicia display is moved relative to the window so that theorange has replaced the green showing in the window. A showing of orangeis a visual indication to the service person that the cassette has beenpotentially compromised. In the exemplary arrangement, the tamperindicator device is active when the cassette is in a locked condition.The color can be reset to green when (or automatically as) the cassetteis unlocked, such as by use of a key or an inputted code or combination.

A lever, latch, cam, and/or spring-loaded mechanism can be used to movethe display to visually change the indicia color when the cassette doorhas been opened then closed. In an exemplary arrangement, the opening ofthe door enables an engagement portion of the cassette door to pass by aspring lever. The lever is connected to the indicator display vialinkage. The lever is movable (e.g., tiltable) one-way to enable theengagement portion to pass by the lever in a door opening direction.However, return movement of the door in a door closing direction causesthe lever to be engaged and tripped, resulting in movement of theindicia display. In the exemplary arrangement, the engagement portioncan trip the lever just prior to the door being fully closed. Theindicia display can be spring-loaded so that when the door approachesits closed position the lever is tripped causing the spring to releaseand move the indicia display in a color changing direction. The trippedlever results in the displayed color being visually changed. It shouldbe understood that other (mechanical and/or electrical) arrangements canbe used to move the display responsive to closing of the door. That is,other arrangements for operating or moving an indicia or indicatordisplay are within the scope of the invention. For example, anotherarrangement can comprise a spring loaded rotatable cam instead of alever.

The exemplary cassette is also able to provide another level ofsecurity. For example, a cassette door that has been opened and thenreturned to its closed position (during tampering) can be kept locked inits closed position. The door can remain locked even if the cassette(while indicating orange) is inadvertently attempted to be inserted intoa dispenser. The locked door prevents full insertion of the cassetteinto the dispenser. Again, unsuccessful insertion of the cassette is afunctional indication (or signal or notice) to the service person of amalfunction or impropriety (e.g., potentially compromised) with thecassette. The cassette door can be unlocked when (or automatically as)the cassette is unlocked.

The novel ability to prevent insertion of a potentially compromisedcassette into a dispenser can result in a foolproof arrangement. Inreview, the exemplary arrangement enables a cassette to be preventedfrom insertion into a dispenser if its door is at least partly open. Ifthe cassette's door was opened and then closed, a visible indication ofsuch action is provided. Even if the cassette handler fails to noticethe visible indicator, the cassette still cannot be inserted into thedispenser because the closed door is kept locked. Thus, whether thecassette door is left open or closed after tampering, the exemplaryarrangement can prevent the insertion of a compromised cassette into adispenser. The exemplary arrangement also provides an indication,whether functional and/or visible, that a cassette has been potentiallycompromised.

The exemplary security arrangement also enables the door of a(non-tampered) cassette to be automatically closed and locked during itsremoval from the dispenser. During cassette removal the pin 220 returnsthe door 210 to its closed position. With the cassette door having beenopened (during insertion) and then closed (during removal), the doorremains in a locked condition. The service person responsible fortransporting the cassette can be without the ability (e.g., cassettekey) to open the cassette. Thus, the cassette can remain securely lockedduring its handling and transport.

A dispenser module 229 may include therewith a picker arrangement. Apicker arrangement can include a picker shaft driven by a picker drivemotor. A stacked module arrangement may include each module having atleast one picker mechanism. A picker mechanism can be properlypositioned to access and pick media (e.g., currency sheets) from acassette. The function and operation of a picker arrangement having apicker roller, stripper roller, and take-away roller enable the pickingof one sheet at a time from a stack of sheets in a cassette.

The servicing of a currency cassette can include replenishing thecassette with cash before reinserting it into a dispenser module of anautomated banking machine. In an exemplary servicing method, a cassetteis reloaded with a stack of currency notes. The tambour door is of thecassette is closed. The lid of the cassette is closed and locked. Thelid can be locked by using a key to move a latch to a lid lockingposition. The reloaded cassette is transported to a dispenser of an ATM.

As previously discussed with regard to FIGS. 25–27, the cassette 200 ismoved in an insertion direction into a dispenser module. The cassette200 is moved toward a push pin 220 of the dispenser module. The cassette200 is aligned with the dispenser module so that movement of thecassette toward the pin 220 causes the pin head 222 to enter a channel228 in the cassette door 210. As the cassette 200 is further movedtoward the stationary pin 220, the channel 228 guides an opening 216 inthe cassette door 210 toward alignment with the pinhead 222. The channel228 can be tapered to facilitate both guidance of the pin head 222therein and guidance of the pin head 222 toward the door opening 216.The pin head 222 can be correspondingly tapered to further facilitateits guidance. The pin head 222 enters and extends through the dooropening 216. The movement of the cassette causes the pin body 224 toabut the door lip 218. At this stage of cassette insertion, the cassettedoor 210 is still in a fully closed position.

As the cassette 200 continues its movement toward the stationary pin220, the stationary pin body 224 exerts a pushing force against the doorlip 218 of the moving cassette. The pushing force causes the door lip218 to move along the slot 214 of the cassette housing in a door openingdirection. The door lip 218 is integral with the cassette door 210.Thus, movement of the door lip 218 causes movement of the door. Furtherinsertion of the cassette 200 into the dispenser causes the door 210 tobecome further opened. The cassette is moved in the insertion directionuntil it is fully inserted. When the cassette is fully inserted thetambour door 210 is filly open.

The fully inserted position of the cassette 200 precludes furthermovement of the cassette in the insertion direction. The push pin 220has (relatively) pushed the door lip 218 adjacent to the distant end ofthe slot 214. The fully inserted cassette is operationally positionedadjacent to a picker mechanism of the dispenser module. A picker rollerof the picker mechanism can be operated to remove a note from the stackof currency notes in the cassette 200.

An exemplary method of servicing a currency cassette (or an ATM) caninclude the following steps. Inserting a stack of currency notes into acurrency cassette. Closing (or ensuring the closing of) the tambour doorof the cassette. Closing the lid of the cassette. Locking the lid with akey operated lock. Wherein the steps of loading the currency into thecassette, closing the cassette door, closing the cassette lid, andlocking the lid can be carried out in a service center facility remotelylocated from the ATM. Transporting the cassette to a dispenser module ofan ATM. Aligning the cassette with a cassette-receiving opening of thedispenser module. Inserting the cassette partly into the dispenseropening. Moving (inserting) the cassette toward a stationary push pin ofthe dispenser module. Further moving the cassette in the insertiondirection to cause the push pin head to enter a tapered channel in atambour door of the cassette. Further inserting the cassette to causethe tapered channel to engage and move along the pin head to align anopening in the cassette door with the pin head. Further inserting thecassette to cause the pin head to enter and extend through the dooropening. Further inserting the cassette to cause a lip integral with thetambour door to engage the stationary pin body. Further inserting thecassette while the door lip remains immovably engaged against thestationary pin body. Wherein a cassette housing slot moves relative tothe door lip positioned therein, causing the door to move in adoor-opening direction relative to the cassette. Further inserting thecassette until it is fully inserted into the dispenser. Wherein when thecassette is fully inserted, the cassette door is fully open. The pinhead continues to extend through the door opening of a fully openedcassette door, and the pin body remains in the channel. Furthermore,when the cassette is fully inserted it is operationally positionedadjacent to a picker mechanism of the dispenser module. Wherein a pickerroller of the picker mechanism is operative to remove a note from thestack of currency notes in the cassette.

The service method steps can also include removing a cassette from adispenser module of an ATM. The cassette removing steps can be areversal of the cassette inserting steps. The removing steps can occurbefore or after the previously discussed servicing steps of inserting acassette into a dispenser module. Removal of a cassette from a dispensermodule can include the following steps. Partly removing a currencycassette in a withdrawal direction from a dispenser module opening,wherein the door lip is moved away from the stationary pin body, andwherein the pin body engages a tambour door strip. Further removing thecassette while the tambour door via the tambour strip remains immovablyengaged against the stationary pin body, wherein the cassette housingslot moves relative to the door lip positioned therein. Further removingthe cassette to cause the pin body to disengage from the tambour doorstrip. Further removing the cassette to cause the pin head to exit thedoor opening. Further removing the cassette to cause the pin head toexit the channel, wherein positional relation of the pin separated fromthe tambour door causes the door to be in a closed position. Furtherremoving the cassette until it is filly withdrawn from the dispenser.

As previously discussed, a picker arrangement in a dispenser module caninclude a picker roller, stripper roller, and a take-away roller. FIG.30 shows an exemplary embodiment including a removable picker shaft 230having picker rollers 232, 234, 236 thereon. The gripper 240 on thecenter picker roller 234 is circumferentially offset from the respectivegrippers 238, 242 of the outer picker rollers 232, 236. Thus, the centerpicker roller 234 can operate to first pick a note from a media (e.g.,currency) cassette. Each picker arrangement can be associated with acorresponding media cassette.

FIG. 30 also shows a key and key hole relationship area 244. The pickershaft 230 can have a key hole (or cutout or groove or slot) at a first(drive) end 231 thereof. The key hole can be sized and shaped to receivea correspondingly sized and shaped key (e.g., projection) of a drive pin250. For example, both the key hole and the key may have matingV-shapes. That is, the picker shaft's V-shaped key hole can receive thedrive pin's V-shaped key. The mating permits the drive pin to drive(i.e., rotate) the picker shaft via engagement of at least the key andkey hole. Alternatively, a drive arrangement may include the drive pinhaving the key slot while the picker shaft has the mating key. A key maybe an outwardly extending projection, e.g., a projection extendingradially and axially from an outer surface.

FIGS. 31–38 show examples of picker shaft and drive pin matingarrangements. FIGS. 31, 32, and 34 show a drive pin 252 having a key248. FIGS. 33 and 34 show a picker shaft 254 having a key hole 246. The(female) key hole 246 is operative to receive the (male) key 248, asshown in FIG. 34. The drive pin 252 is able to enter the picker shaft254 with the key 248 mating with the key hole 246.

FIG. 35 shows another mating engagement of a picker shaft 256 and drivepin 258. The picker shaft and drive pin have substantially the sameouter diameter. A V-shaped key 260 projects from the remainder of thedrive pin body 262. The picker shaft includes a V-shaped cut out slot264.

FIGS. 36, 37, and 38 show another mating relationship of a picker shaftand drive pin. The relationship shows a picker shaft 266 having a centeraxial key 268, and a drive pin 270 having an axial channel key hole 272.The picker shaft is able to engage with the drive pin, with the shaftkey 268 mating in the pin key hole 272. The picker shaft 266 alsoincludes a key hole 276 adjacent its outer surface (e.g.,circumference), and the drive pin 270 includes a projecting key 274adjacent its outer surface. The key hole 276 is operative to receive theprojecting key 274. Thus, the picker shaft 266 is matingly engaged withthe drive pin 270 in at least two locations.

Of course it should be understood that further exemplary embodiments ofkey and key hole engagement relationships involving a drive pin andpicker shaft may be used. For example, the male/female matingarrangements of the drive pin and picker shaft may be reversed in any ofFIGS. 31–38. Additionally, a key may be an inwardly extendingprojection, e.g., extending radially and axially from an innercircumferential surface.

Referring again to FIG. 30, the picker shaft 230 also has a second(free) end 233 (i.e., the end opposite the drive end 231). The pickershaft can have a constant diameter or a varying diameter. For example,the free end may include a smaller diameter guide pin, such as a pinsimilar to center axial key 268. The free end can be supported in anopening (or slot or hole) in a side wall 280 of the dispenser module229. The opening may extend to a closed wall portion (e.g., the wallside disposed from the guide pin). For example, the free end can be heldor supported in a wall hole without passing through the closed wall.Alternatively, the wall can have a hole passing entirely therethrough sothat a portion of the free end extends out of the side wall.

FIG. 30 shows a module side wall 280 having a tab 282. The tab can becutout from the dispenser module side wall 280. The tab can comprise alaser cut metal wall tab. Thus, the tab can be integral with or ofone-piece construction with the metal wall of the dispenser.Alternatively, the tab can be separately fastened or connected to thedispenser module body. The tab can be a springy or resilient or biasingmember, such as a spring loaded tab. The tab 282 can have an opening orhole 284. As previously discussed, the free end portion 233 of the shaft230 can be held or supported in the tab hole 284. The tab hole 284enables the shaft end 233 to be retained from movement in a mannerfurther described hereinafter. In exemplary arrangements, the tab 282can comprise a previously discussed latch 54 or tab 56.

The resiliency of the tab 282 is operative to retain (or trap) thepicker shaft 230 in mating connection with the drive pin 250 (at thekey). That is, the tab 282 can be positioned to hold the picker shaft inengagement with the drive pin by applying a continuous force pushingagainst the picker shaft in a direction toward the drive pin.Alternatively, the tab 282 can be positioned to hold the picker shaft inengagement with the drive pin while the tab is in an unbiased or relaxedstate. The tab can become active when necessary to retain the shaft.Also, the shaft may or may not have a certain amount of axially playrelative to the drive pin. Nevertheless, any attempt by the shaft toaxial move (with or without play) out of mating engagement with thedrive pin results in a retaining force being applied against the pickershaft by the tab. The tab prevents disengagement of the picker shaftfrom the drive pin.

The tab 282, in different exemplary arrangements, can have differentresting positions (unbiased normal state) relative to the dispenser wall280. For example, a tab can be neutrally biased in a position extending(flared) inward from the dispenser wall 280. Thus, pushing the taboutwardly in a direction toward the dispenser wall 280 places the tab ina biased state, and the tab tries to return (in an inwardly direction)to its unbiased state. Another arrangement can have the tab in itsunbiased state when it is substantially parallel with the dispenserwall. A further arrangement can have the unbiased tab extending (flared)outwardly from the dispenser wall.

The shaft free end 233 can force the free end of the tab 282 in anoutward direction (away from the drive pin) during manual insertion ofthe picker shaft 230 into operative engagement with the drive pin 250.The outwardly pushed resilient tab tries to return (inward) to itsresting position. That is, the outwardly biased tab attempts to retractto its unbiased (normal) state. Hence, after the picker shaft isinserted, the retention tab 282 acts to produce a spring force againstthe picker shaft. This spring force results in the picker shaft beingretained (or locked) in its operating position.

Removal of the picker shaft 230 from the dispenser can occur by moving(e.g., manually moving) the shaft in an axial direction (e.g., relativeto the shaft axis) toward the tab 282 until the drive pin key isdisengaged from the picker shaft key hole. This movement causes the tabto (further) move in a direction away from the drive pin 250.Alternatively, instead of using the picker shaft to move the taboutwardly, the tab may be directly moved by a service person's hand.With the picker shaft and drive pin disconnected, then the shaft driveend 231 (which in this example has the key hole) can be moved (e.g.,lifted or raised) in a direction radially away from the drive pin 250.The shaft drive end 231 can then be moved out of alignment with thedrive pin. The shaft can then be moved in a generally axially (andupwardly) direction away from the tab 282 to release the shaft free end233 from the supporting opening in the tab. FIG. 39 shows the dispensermodule 229 of FIG. 30 without the picker shaft and drive pin arrangementtherein.

Installation of the picker shaft 230 in the dispenser module 229 can beperformed as reversal of the disengagement procedure. The opposite endis inserted into the opening located in the free end of the tab 282. Thetab is manually forced (either directly by hand or via the shaft) in adirection away from the drive pin. While the tab is held in a biasedcondition, the drive end of the picker shaft is mated with the drivepin. Thereafter, the tab is released. The released tab retracts (ifnecessary) in a direction toward the drive pin to retain the pickershaft in mating engagement with the drive pin. Thus, a picker shaft canbe quickly inserted (e.g., dropped or lowered) into or removed from itsoperating position in a dispenser module. The mating arrangement and thespring tab arrangement permit efficient securing of a picker shaft in adispenser. The use of additional hardware and fastening parts can beeliminated.

The function and operation of a picker roller, stripper roller, and atake-away roller provide for picking one sheet at a time from the stackof sheets in the cassette. FIG. 30 also shows a stripper roller 286 on apivotable shaft 290, and a take-away roller 288 on another pivotableshaft 292. The rollers 286, 288 can be removably mountable on theirrespective shaft. Both the stripper roller and the take-away roller areoppositely adjacent to the center picker roller 234.

The stripper roller 286 can operate to generally prevent exit of all butthe first sheet from a currency or other sheet stack in a currency orother sheet holding cassette. The stripper roller 286 can have a one-wayclutch or other device to permit or restrict rotational movement in onlyone direction, e.g., in a direction to return an excess currencynote(s). The one-way clutch or other device is operative to resistrotation of the stripper roller 286 in a direction which wouldfacilitate movement of sheets other than the end sheet from the currencystack.

The take-away roller of an exemplary embodiment can freely rotate toassist in moving a currency note away from the center picker roller. Thetake-away roller may be driven through engagement with the center pickerroller.

The pivotable shaft 290 is operative to pivot (or swing) the stripperroller 286 in an arcing direction away from the picker shaft 230.Likewise, the pivotable shaft 292 is operative to pivot (or swing) thetake-away roller 288 in an arcing direction away from the picker shaft.Of course the shafts 290, 292 can also pivot the respective rollers 286,288 toward the picker shaft 230. The ability to move the rollers 286,288 away from the center picker roller 234 (and each other) enables therollers to be efficiently serviced or replaced.

A fastener member 294 is operative to hold the pivotable shaft 290 ofthe stripper roller 286 in an operating position. Another fastenermember 296 is likewise operative to hold the pivotable shaft 292 of thetake-away roller 288 in an operating position. The fastener or retainingmembers 294, 296 are operative to releasably clamp a pivotable shaft ina fixed operating area or range. The fastener members 294, 296 canprevent substantial upward (and downward) movement of their respectiveshaft. The fastener members 294, 296 can also be used to limit theextent of movement of a respective roller in the direction toward thecenter picker roller 234. The retaining members 294, 296 are operativeto limit movement of the respective shafts 290, 292 in at least twoperpendicular directions. The fastener members 294, 296 can be attachedto the dispenser module 229.

A fastener member can comprise a spring clip. The fastener members 294,296 can be spring biased to produce a clamping force. The clamping forcecan be set at a force level such that it can be manually overcome. Forexample, a fastener member can have a tapered entrance with two flangesforming an opening. The opening can normally be of a diameter smallerthan the diameter of a pivoting shaft. Moving a pivoting shaft throughthe entrance can cause the opening to expand. After the pivoting shaftpasses through the entrance the opening can retract to its unbiased(normal) state, thus retaining (or locking) the pivoting shaft in thefastener member.

Biasing or spring members can be used to bias the pivot shafts towardthe picker shaft. Resilient spring member 298 produces a force (e.g.,push) against the pivot shaft 290 so that the stripper roller 286 isproperly positioned adjacent to the center picker roller 234. Likewise,another resilient spring member 299 functions to maintain the take-awayroller 288 properly positioned adjacent to (e.g., abutting) the centerpicker roller 234. The spring members (e.g., spring tabs) can be cut outfrom the dispenser module floor. The spring members can comprise lasercut metal. Thus, the spring members can be integral with or of one-piececonstruction with the dispenser. Of course this arrangement is merelyexemplary and in other embodiments other arrangements may be used.

The spring members 298, 299 and fastener members 294, 296 can functiontogether to properly position the rollers 286, 288 adjacent to thecenter picker roller 234. For example, the spring member 298 andfastener member 294 enable play in the pivot shaft 290. This allows thestripper roller 286 to move (if necessary) when plural currency sheetsare simultaneously being picked.

FIG. 40 shows an arrangement of stacked dispenser modules 300, 301. Themodules 300, 301 may be similar to the modules previously discussed.Each module may include tab supports for wires, bundles of discretewire, and/or ribbon cables. FIG. 40 further shows tabs 302, 304, 306associated with modules 300, 301. The tabs can be used to route or guidewires so that they do not become tangled or interfere with dispensingoperations. For example, a wire operatively connected to a picker drivemotor may be supported via one or more tabs. The tabs can comprisestamped in wire routing fasteners or clips. A tab can be formed from amodule. For example, a tab can be laser cut from a module wall portion308 (e.g., metal wall). Thus, a tab may be integral or one-piece with amodule wall. A tab may also be formed with a non-metal wall (e.g.,plastic wall), such as in a plastic molding process.

A tab may be flexible, with one end attached to a module wall whileanother end is freely movable. A clip may also be spring biased toretain or lock a wire in a particular position or location. The biasingforce of a clip may be manually overcome. A free end of a clip may alsohave an inwardly directed lip or flange to assist in wire retention. Forexample, a module wall clip may be similar in shape and lip to a writingpen clip. A module may include different tabs of various shapes andsizes. FIG. 40 further shows wires 310 supported by tabs 302, and wires312 supported by both tabs 304 and 306 in the module 301. The tabs inmodule 301 can likewise support additional wires. Shielded wires can berouted against a module sheet metal surface using formed tabs. Anarrangement of wall-formed tabs can eliminate the need of additional(separate) parts to route and secure wires. It follows that the handlingof the additional parts can also be eliminated.

Furthermore, formed tabs for securing plural wire bundles can bepositioned relative to each other so as to allow additional securementof the wires. The arrangement of tabs can be predetermined so that awire bundle of a first module provides support to one or more wirebundles of an adjacent second module. For example, tabs can be arrangedso that a wire bundle of a higher module can cross over or overlap oneor more wire bundles routed from a lower module in such a way thatadditionally secures the lower bundles as they continue upward (e.g., upthe side of modules). FIG. 40 shows a higher wire bundle 312 crossingover (in the module 301) an extended lower wire bundle 314, and a higherwire bundle 310 overlapping (in the module 301) an extended lower wirebundle 316. Other arrangements for providing additional wire securementdue to crossing over or overlapping may also be used. For example, lowerwire bundles may be used to further secure higher wire bundles.Additionally, the same tab in a module may be used to support differentwire bundles from the same module or from different modules.

An exemplary form of an automated banking machine includes an advancedfunction dispenser (AFD). The AFD includes one or more dispensermechanisms operative to transport media (e.g., currency notes) from astorage area in a media cassette to a user (e.g., customer) of theautomated banking machine. In an exemplary form of currency notedispensing, a currency note can be picked from a cassette by a notepicker mechanism. As previously discussed, the picker mechanism mayinclude a picker shaft and picker rollers. The picked note can then betransported in a first (e.g., vertical) direction via belts to a notepresenter. The presenter is operative to move the note (or stack ofnotes) in a second (e.g., horizontal) direction to present the note(s)to the user.

It should be understood that the terms vertical and horizontal aremerely exemplary and that the dispenser mechanism may be configured totransport notes in other varying directions. For example, a dispensermechanism may be positioned such that a picked note is transported in anangled (e.g., horizontal) direction via belts away from a pickermechanism toward a note presenter, and then transported in anotherangled (e.g., vertical) direction from the note presenter to the user.Alternative note transport arrangements may have a picked notetransported directly to the user without a change in transportdirection.

FIGS. 41 and 42 show an exemplary arrangement for transporting media ina first direction (e.g., vertical direction) in a dispenser. Thearrangement can transport media from adjacent a picker mechanism towarda presenter mechanism. FIG. 41 shows a view of the lower portion of avertical transport mechanism 320 while FIG. 42 shows a view of the upperportion of the vertical transport mechanism 320. FIGS. 43 and 44 showadditional views of the upper portion. The vertical transport mechanismcan be supported in a dispenser adjacent to a plurality of stackeddispenser modules. For example, the vertical transport mechanism may bearranged adjacent to an inner wall of the dispenser housing, with theinner wall facing the modules' picker mechanisms.

The vertical transport mechanism 320 includes a plurality of belts 322,324, 326 on corresponding rotatable rollers 330, 332, 334. The beltsused in the vertical transport mechanism can be timing belts. Eachroller 330, 332, 334 on an upper roller shaft 328 is matched with acorresponding roller 338, 340, 342 on a lower roller shaft 336. Theupper shaft 328 can be a drive shaft, with the upper rollers 330, 332,334 being drive rollers. The lower shaft 336 can be an idle shaft (e.g.,freely rotatable shaft or driven shaft), with the lower rollers 338,340, 342 being idle rollers. For example, belt 322 can ride on drivingroller 330 and free roller 338. The idle shaft 336 can be driven by thedrive shaft 328 via the belts.

Both the lower and upper rollers can have side flanges 344, 346 toassist in retaining a belt thereon. That is, the rollers can have aconcave outer circumferential surface configuration. The concavity ofthe rollers assists in preventing belt slippage and serve to maintainthe belts in engaged relation with the rollers.

The drive shaft can have grooved timing pulleys. The upper shaft rollers330, 332, 334 can also have teeth (e.g., bumps, slots, projections,grippers, friction members) 348 to assist in driving (e.g., gripping)the belts. The idle shaft can have non-grooved spindles. The lower shaftrollers 338, 340, 342 can be smooth (e.g., without teeth). FIG. 45 showsa view of upper shaft rollers without belts thereon.

The belts can be operated to vertically transport currency notes (orother types of sheet media) intermediate the belts and a transport wall350. The transport wall may be comprised of aligned walls of stackeddispenser modules. One face (e.g., a flat surface side) of a note canslide against the wall while the other face of the note is engaged withand driven by the belts. Each of the belts can be arranged so that allthe belts simultaneously engage the same single note. It should beunderstood that the belts can also simultaneously transport spaced notesthat are sequenced back to back. For example, a second note may beentering the belts before the first note has exited therefrom. In anexemplary arrangement, three belts are equally spaced relative to eachother in order to grip and move a currency sheet. However, it should beunderstood that a greater or fewer number of belts maybe used to movesheets.

In an exemplary arrangement, the lower shaft 336 can be verticallymovable relative to the upper shaft 328. For example, the upper shaftcan be fixed from movement in a first direction (e.g., verticaldirection) relative to a housing of the machine while the lower shaftcan be movable relative to the housing in the first direction. A biasingarrangement can be used to continually bias (e.g., push) the lower shaftin a direction away from the upper shaft. FIG. 41 shows a biasingarrangement 352 including torsion springs 354 adjacent ends of the lowershaft 336. The springs 354 may be attached to sliding blocks 355arranged in tracks or guides. A block can be attached to the upper endof a spring 354. The vertically movable blocks 355, loaded with thesprings 354, can hold the idle shaft 336 under tension.

The ends of the lower shaft 336 can be retained in a respective bearingflange 337 that is slidable in a sheet metal slot 359 in the dispenserhousing. The flange 337 can be guided in the slot 359 via tongue andgroove arrangements 353. FIG. 41 shows a flange 337 extending on bothsides of a slot 359. Each bearing flange 337 can be attached to thelower end of a spring 354. A spring guide 356 is attached to the bearingflanges 337. The blocks 355 also have spring guides 357.

The spring loaded lower shaft 336 can maintain the belts in a state oftension (e.g., keeping the belts tight) even though they may havestretched over a time period. As the belts stretch the blocks (andbearing flanges) fall due to gravity, causing the belts to be kept intension. The spring force, block weight, and bearing flange weight canbe predetermined to maintain the necessary tension in the belts. Thespring arrangement can be operative to maintain the belts at generallythe same tension force throughout movement of the lower shaft. Thespring loaded lower shaft arrangement assists in preventing beltslippage.

The biasing arrangement 352 may also include a ratchet arrangement. Oneor more ratchet devices can be ratcheted one-way so that the lower shaftcannot move (e.g., upwardly) toward the upper shaft to reduce belttension. Several different ratchet arrangements can be used. Forexample, the blocks can be attached to a ratchet device. A block ratchetdevice prevents the block from backtracking (e.g., moving upwardly).Likewise, the bearing flanges can be respectively attached to ratchetdevices to prevent their backtracking. In other ratchet arrangements,the ratchet device may include spring loaded cams which only permitone-way movement of a first cylinder (or shaft or pin) relative to asecond cylinder. The cylinders may be telescoping. Again, the lowershaft biasing arrangement enables the belts to be kept at a tightnesswhich permits them to be driven to transport the notes.

FIGS. 42–45 also show that the upper roller shaft 328 can besupportingly positioned in a supporting frame 358. One end of the uppershaft can be positioned in an opening 360 in the frame while the otherend can be seated in a slotted opening 362 in the frame. In otherarrangements, both ends of the drive shaft can be seated in slottedopenings. Thus, the drive shaft can be quickly positioned in thedispenser frame. Once the drive shaft is positioned in the frame, thenit can be retained or trapped in its position by closure of a platen orcover 364. The installed cover 364 prevents removal of the drive shaftfrom the slot 362.

FIGS. 42 and 45 further show rotatable guide rollers 366, 368, 370. Theguide rollers may be part of a note presenter mechanism. The presentercan include the guide rollers on a shaft. The guide rollers areoperative to abut or push into the belts 322, 324, 326 to direct orguide the notes therefrom. The guide rollers are operative to abut orpush into the belts 322, 324, 326 to direct or guide the notestherefrom. The guide rollers are operative to provide curvature to thebelts. The guide rollers impart directional curvature to a note leavingthe belts. The guide rollers can rotate in conformity with the belts tomove a note therebetween in the same direction. The notes are guided bythe guide rollers toward the presenter.

As shown in FIG. 42, the guide rollers 366, 368, 370 can respectivelypartially extend beneath the drive rollers 330, 332, 334. Thus, thebelts 322, 324, 326 can also ride on the guide rollers. The curvatureand position of the guide rollers relative to the drive rollers permitnotes to be separated (or removed) and guided away from the verticalbelts. The curved positioning of the guide rollers against the beltsenables the notes to leave the belts and ride on the guide rollers. Inan exemplary arrangement, gravity causes the notes to leave the belts.In another exemplary arrangement, the guide rollers contain a notegripping sticky cover material. As shown in more detail in FIG. 45, theguide rollers 366, 368, 370 can have a dish-shaped (e.g., concave) outercircumferential surface portion. The concavity of a guide roller canassist in maintaining or retaining a belt thereon.

FIG. 46 shows an exemplary arrangement for transporting media in a(horizontal) direction substantially perpendicular to the transportingdirection of the vertical transport mechanism 320. FIG. 46 shows a viewof a horizontal transport mechanism 372 of a media dispenser. Thetransport mechanism 372 can be part of a note presenter 375. The notepresenter can be removably attached to the top of a dispenser module.The transport mechanism 372 can include the previously discussedrotatable guide rollers 366, 368, 370.

The horizontal transport 372 includes paddle wheels 374 rotatable on acommon paddle wheel shaft 376. Currency notes leaving the vertical belts322, 324, 326 of vertical transport mechanism 320 can be engaged by thepaddle wheels 374. The paddle wheels 374 are operative to cause a noteto transfer from the vertical transport mechanism 320 to the horizontaltransport mechanism 372.

The paddle wheels 374 each include a plurality of individual paddles378. The paddles can be flexible and/or noodle-like but with sufficientresiliency to impart a force to urge sheets to move. Each paddle wheelcan have its paddles angularly aligned with the paddles of the otherwheels. Therefore, at least one paddle on each wheel can contact a noteat substantially the same (simultaneous) time. Commonality of engagementwith a note permits the note to remain in relatively fixed alignmentduring engagement with the paddle wheels. This aligned simultaneous noteengagement enables the paddle wheels to move a note withoutsubstantially twisting or skewing the note.

The paddles 378 are operative to engage a note leaving the guide rollers366, 368, 370. The paddles 378 can direct the note to a note stackingtray 380 where plural notes can be stacked one upon another. The trayhas rails 381 on which the generated stack can rest. The rails 381 havereduced or tapered end surfaces 382 for corresponding passage of theouter circumference surface of a respective paddle 378. A taperedsurface permits the tip or distal end of a paddle to avoid (or slightlycontact) the tray during its rotation. The use of the tapered endsurfaces 382 can extend the life of the paddles 378.

In an exemplary arrangement, the presenter 375 includes a presenterfloor rail arrangement 420. As shown in FIG. 46, slots 383 in the trayrails 381 are configured to receive an end portion 387 of floor rails422, 423, 424. The slots 383 can be open at one end. The tapered ends ofthe tray rails 381 include an extended portion 379 that is operative tobe matingly aligned with separated portions 371 of the floor rails 422,423, 424. As can be seen in FIG. 46, the extended portions 379 of thetray rails 381 are axially movable in a respective slot 373. The slots373 also guide the tray 380 during its axial movement. Likewise, trayguides 369 can be positioned adjacent the tray 380 to guide the otherend of the tray 380 during its axial movement. The slots 383 enable thetray to ride on the tray guides 369. Thus, the tray 380 can be raised tohorizontally align the tray rails 381 with the floor rails 422, 423,424. A fully raised tray results in the tray rails and the floor railssharing a common plane. A fully raised tray causes each set of the threehorizontally aligned rails (e.g., rails 371, 381, 422 at same elevation)to act as a single rail.

Adjacent raised guide floor rails 422, 423, 424 produce a parallelchannel or groove therebetween: The bottom or base of the push device390 can have projections that can correspondingly mate into thechannels. The male/female relationships of the rails and base enable thepush device to accurately slide in parallel alignment relative to thepresenter floor rails. This parallel movement of the push device alsoenables the push device to realign and rerail belts so as to assure beltengagement with the supporting rolls.

The dispenser can include a divert container (or cassette). A divertcontainer is operative to receive and store therein diverted media.Diverted media (e.g., currency notes, sheets or bills) can be that whichwas determined to have some type of problem (e.g., an unacceptable mediacondition) by the automated banking machine and is not to be presentedto a user (e.g., unpresentable media). For example, a note which faileda test by a note validator may be sent to a divert container. Adispenser may include a divert container located adjacent to (e.g.,beneath) the presenter. The note tray 380 can be arranged to pivot toremovably drop unacceptable notes into the divert container. A note traymay be adjacent blocking structure that keeps notes from inadvertentlyentering (or falling) into the divert container. For example, the trayguides 369 can be used to prevent notes from leaving the tray duringnote stacking, yet allow the tray to tilt to release notes into a divertcassette. The open ended tray slots 383 enable the end of the tray topass through the tray guides 369 during the tilting of the note tray380.

FIG. 47 shows an exemplary presenter belt arrangement. After a presenternote tray is filled with the desired number and/or denomination ofnotes, then the tray 380, with the note stack thereon, can be lifted toproceed with presenting the note stack to a user. The presenter beltarrangement is operative to movingly engage the top of a lifted notestack. The presenter belts 384,386,388 rotate on rollers 394 of shafts396, 398. The tray 380 is raised with the note stack eventually engagingthe presenter belts.

FIG. 47 also shows a push device 390 including a push plate 392. Thepresenter belts 384,386,388 are operative to move the push device 390therewith. In alternative arrangements, the push device can be movedindependently of the belts. The push plate 392 can engagingly push anote stack as the push device 390 moves parallel to the aligned belts384, 386, 388. The presenter belts can pass through respective openings393 in the push plate. The push plate can surround the belts. That is,the belts can be trapped in the push plate. The push plate is operativeto move along the belts to push at least a portion of a note stack in auser presenting direction. Thus, the presenter belts can work togetherwith the push plate 392 to transport the notes as a stack.

The push device 390 is located in a starting position behind the raisednote stack. The positioning enables the push device to receive and pushthe note stack toward the presenter exit. During transport the notestack can be contacted by the belts 384, 386, 388, the push plate 392,and one or more walls (e.g., floor) of the presenter. The floor of apresenter can include one or more raised rails on which a note stack canride or slide. The raised rails can engage the notes with a smallersurface that results in less friction and smoother note sliding. Thepush device 390 can further include guides 391 to assist in keeping anote stack in alignment with the push plate. In an exemplary stackmoving process, a note stack is moved by the belts 384, 386, 388 andpush plate 392 from the note tray 380 toward a user in a direction awayfrom the paddle wheels 374.

The push device 390 is able to assist in realigning and rerailing thebelts. The belts 384, 386, 388, shaft rollers 394, and push device 390are arranged relative to each other to cause automatic rerailing of thebelts. That is, the arrangement can cause self realignment of a beltrelative to its rollers.

The shaft rollers 394 are configured to assist in realigning the belts384, 386, 388. The rollers 394 can be crowned (e.g., convexly tapered).The outer circumferential surface of a crowned roller 394 includes acenter (rail) portion 397 located between tapering portions 395. Thecenter portion has a larger diameter than the tapering portions. Thecenter portion 397 can comprise a non-tapering substantially flatplateau or rail on which a belt can ride. The diameter of each taperingportion 395 narrows in a direction extending away from the centerportion 397.

The push plate 392 can assist in realigning the belts 384, 386, 388. Aspreviously discussed, the belts can be trapped in the push plate. Shoulda belt become disengaged far enough from one (or both) of its rollers394, then movement (horizontally) of the push device 390 is operative toengagingly move or return the disengaged belt close enough to a taper395 of the empty crowned roller 394. Once the belt reaches the rollertaper 395, it can climb the taper to the center 397 of the roller. Thus,the arrangement of crown rollers 394 and the push plate 392 permits thebelts 384, 386, 388 to be automatically readjusted, realigned, and/orrerailed on the crown rollers 394.

The roller shafts 396, 398 can also be vertically movable to compensatefor varying stack heights or thicknesses. The shafts may be springbiased in a (downward) direction toward a note stack. For example, abiasing arrangement similar to the previously discussed biasingarrangement 352 for the idle shaft 336 may be used. Thus, the belts areoperative to engage different sized stacks. It follows that thepresenter is operative to present different sized stacks of currencynotes to a user.

In an exemplary note transport process, notes are guided into the notestacking tray 380 by the paddle wheels 374 to form a note stack in thenote presenter 375. The note stack rests on the tray rails 381. The notetray 380 is raised until the tray bottom is substantially aligned with apresenter floor 426. A fully raised tray also causes the tray rails 381to be respectively aligned with the floor rails 422, 423, 424. With therails in substantial alignment, the push device 390 is operative to pusha note stack out of the tray 380 and onto the floor rails of the notepresenter. The push device is further operative to push the note stackalong the floor rails toward the roller shaft 398 and the presenterexit.

A stack of currency notes may be presented to a user through a presentergate arrangement. The gate arrangement can be a part of the presenter375. The gate arrangement can include a gate or door or cover. FIG. 48shows a presenter gate arrangement 400 having a gate 402 in a closedposition.

The gate 402 is movable in a substantially vertical (e.g., upward)direction. The gate is upwardly movable to a position behind a framemember (or portion) 404 of the presenter housing 421. The frame member404 may be a plate attached to or integral with a security cover 405.The gate arrangement has at least one cam arm 408 operatively connected(or integral or one-piece) with the gate 402. The presenter housing 421includes at least one actuator lever 410 having an angled slot 414. Thelever 410 is linked with the arm 408. The arm 408 includes a projection412 (e.g., shaft or bushing or pin) which is operative to ride or slidein the lever slot 414. An exemplary form of the gate arrangementincludes two actuator levers 410, two (dual) arms 408 attached to thegate 402 at respective opposite sides thereof, and each arm 408 having ashaft 412 slidable in a respective lever slot 414. FIGS. 61 and 62 showa dual cam arm arrangement.

It should be understood that other gate arrangements for operating thegate 402 are within the scope of the invention. For example, a gatearrangement can comprise only one cam and one lever, instead of a pair.Another gate arrangement can have the slot angled differently. Forexample, contrary to shown slot 414, the higher end of the angled slotcan be positioned further from the gate than the lower end. A furthergate arrangement can include having the angled slot in the cam arm(instead of the lever), and having the shaft for riding in the slot onthe actuator lever (instead of with the cam arm). Additional shaft/slotconfigurations may be used.

FIG. 49 shows an additional view of the gate 402 in a closed position.In FIG. 49 the frame member 404 has not been shown to provide additionalclarity.

FIG. 50 shows a view of the gate arrangement 400 with the presenter gate402 in an open position. The gate 402 is partly hidden behind framemember 404. FIGS. 51–53 show alternative views of the gate arrangement400 with the presenter gate in an open position. For clarity, not all ofthe gate arrangement components are shown in each of the Figures. Forexample, in FIG. 51 the frame member 404 has not been shown so that thegate 402 may be viewed in an upward open position.

During a gate opening procedure, axial actuation of the lever 410 (e.g.,in a direction away from the gate) causes the gate arm shaft 412 to moveupwardly along the angled slot 414. Movement of the shaft 412 up theslot 414 causes the end of the cam arm 408 adjacent to the gate 402 topivot upwardly. The arm end is attached to the gate. Movement of the armend upwardly causes the gate to also move upwardly. A note stack can bepresented to a user when the gate is in an open position. The notes canpass through the open area or passage 415 created by the moved gate.

The actuator lever 410 can be used to drive the stack pusher device 390.The push device 390 and the lever 410 can be linked in a reverse drivearrangement. For example, the push device 390 can engage a drive chain,cable or rope connected to the lever 410. The chain can be arranged totravel about a pulley or roller. As the push device 390 moves toward thegate 402 it engages the drive chain. Further movement of the push device390 causes the chain to move about the pulley. Movement of the chainresults in the lever 410 being pulled in a direction away from the gate.The lever 410 can be spring-loaded to return to its original gateclosing position.

Alternatively, the push device 390 and the lever 410 can be linked in adirect drive arrangement. Such direct drive is permitted, for example,by having the lever with the angled slot positioned with its higher endlocated further from the gate than its lower end. The push device 390can directly engage and push the lever 410 toward the gate. As the lever410 is pushed, the cam arm pin 412 rides up the angled slot causing thegate to open.

Other mechanisms can be used to drive a lever 410, such as a motor. Ifplural actuator levers 410 are used (e.g., one on each side of thepresenter housing 421), then they may be linked so that they arecommonly driven, such as by a common motor. Motor actuation of a lever410 can be timed so that its gate opening operation corresponds with thearrival of a note stack. Position sensors can be used in the presenter375 to indicate the arrival of a note stack. The sensors can notify acontroller (e.g., computer) to cause the motor to open the gate. Thelever(s) can be set to move a predetermined axial distance to ensurethat the gate moves a predetermined vertical distance to completelyopen. The angled slot can also be of a predetermined angle and length toensure proper gate movement.

In other exemplary arrangements the gate can be only partially openedbased on the stack size (height). That is, the gate may not need to befully opened to permit exit of a note stack. Other sensors or notecounters can inform the controller the size of the note stack. Thecontroller can determine the distance the gate should be opened to allowpassage of the particular note stack. Based on the determined gatedistance, the controller can further determine the correspondingdistance that the lever needs to be moved. The controller can then causethe lever to be moved only the determined axial distance. The ability toopen the gate only the necessary or minimum distance is an additionalsecurity feature of the presenter gate arrangement. The smaller thehousing opening presented to a user, then the smaller the ability fortampering through the opening.

A portion of the gate can also be matingly arranged to move on an innertrack or rail of the housing frame to guide and align the gate duringits movement. The gate portion can also remain in the inner track whenthe gate is in a closed position.

The note presenter 375 has further security features to prevent and/orreduce unlawful tampering. As previously mentioned, the gate arrangementcan include a security cover 405. The cover can include the (front)frame member 404 and side flange members 406. The note presenter 375 canbe positioned in an ATM such that the gate 402 faces a customeraccessible outlet opening in the ATM. The cover members 404, 406 canassist in preventing customer access to the inner components or workingsof the presenter. The cover side flange member 406 can also preventaccess to the cam arm 408, the actuator lever 410, and the connectionbetween the gate 402 and the cam arm 408.

FIG. 51 shows a security plate 416 having an end with a flange lip 418protruding downwardly. The lip 418 can prevent user entry into an areaunderneath the presenter. The opposite end of the security plate 416 maybe attached at a location inside the presenter housing frame. Thelocation being unattainable to a user. The opposite end may have aflange which fastens into a housing slot.

As previously mentioned, the presenter floor rail arrangement 420 caninclude rails 422, 423, 424 on which a note stack can slide. A notestack may consist of a single note or a plurality of stacked notes.FIGS. 54–55 show another view of the presenter floor rail arrangement420 having the outer rails 424 and the center rails 422, 423 adjacentthe presenter floor 426. The center rails 422, 423 can have a greaterlength than the outer rails 424. The center rails 422, 423 can also haveat least one flexible portion, the use of which is describedhereinafter.

FIGS. 56–57 show views of an end of the center rail 423. The shown endcan be placed nearest to the note passage area 415. Each center rail hasa rail end including both a flanged finger 432 and a flexible finger434. The flexible finger 434 is able to twist (or rotate) relative tothe remainder of the rail body 423. The flexible finger 434 can comprisea spring finger. The spring finger may impart an upward spring bias.

The roller shaft 398, previously discussed in regard to FIG. 47, isvertically movable relative to the rail fingers 432, 434. An exitingstack of notes passes between the rail fingers and the crowned rollers394. FIG. 54 (and FIG. 59) shows a relatively large note stack 430(e.g., plural stacked notes) adjacent to a crown roller shaft 398 andthe note passage area 415. FIG. 55 (and FIG. 58) shows a view similar toFIG. 54 but with a relatively smaller note stack 428 (e.g., a singlenote) at the note passage area 415. FIGS. 54 and 55 show that the rollershaft 398 is vertically movable to permit the presentation of differentsized note stacks. The ends of the roller shaft 398 can be movable inrespective guide slots 419 in the presenter housing 421. The larger thestack, the further the roller shaft 398 is elevated. The roller shaft398 can be arranged to rest in its lowermost slot position. The shaft398 can be arranged to slide upward in the slots 419 to an elevationcorresponding to the size of the note stack. The relationship of thebelts 384, 386, 388 to a note stack can assist in raising (or pullingupward) the shaft 398.

As explained in more detail herein, the rail ends can form wave orwaffle contours in sheets. A lip 436 of the flanged finger 432 canextend to overlap the previously discussed (e.g., FIG. 51) flanged lip418 of the security plate 416. That is, an end of the center flexiblerail 423 can project in a downward direction outside of the security lip418. The flanged finger 432 can also include an extending transverseportion 431. The transverse portion 431 may be fastened to or integrallyformed with the rail 423. The transverse portion 431 includes a verticalsegment 429 having a raised hump 438 extending therefrom.

A process of securing a center rail 423 in the presenter can includehaving the flanged finger lip 436 tightly abutting the security lip 418while the other end of the center rail is secured in the presenterhousing adjacent to the note stacking tray 380. Furthermore, the rails(i.e., center and outer rails) can be held in place by having aplurality of spaced securing flanges 437, 439 positioned underneathcorresponding tabs (e.g., spring tabs) on the presenter floor 426. Whenthe gate 402 is in a closed state then the center rails 422, 423 and thesecurity plate 416 are positioned behind the gate, and are protectedfrom user access by the gate structure.

A stack of notes can be exited from the presenter in a relativelyhorizontal state. The flexible rails 422, 423 are operative, inconjunction with the crowned rollers 394, to produce a wavy (or“waffle”) configuration to notes exiting the presenter. The center railfingers 432, 434 are positioned opposite to the smaller diameter portion395 of the crowned rollers 394. The spring fingers 434 are biased upwardinto the open gate area. The positional relationship of spring fingers434 intermediate crowned rollers can cause a wave configuration to beimparted to notes and stacks exiting the presenter. The spring fingerscan be aligned relative to the rollers 394 such that each spring finger434 is aligned opposite a tapering portion 395. The raised hump portion438 of the flanged finger 432 can also contribute to the “waffle”effect. The raised hump portion 438 can be aligned opposite the outertapered portions of the outermost rollers.

The “waffle” effect on a note stack adds or causes stiffening to thin,flexible note stacks. This stiffening makes it easier to move a notestack through the note passage area 415. The stiffening can prevent theleading end of a note from drooping downward as it exits the crownedrollers. Contrarily, notes exiting from the presenter without theimparted wavy configuration would tend to immediately curl downward.Impartation of the wavy configuration to notes can reduce note jams andalso increase security. An example of a wavy configuration imparted to anote stack 428 can be found in FIG. 55.

A spring finger 434 is operative to permit both large note stacks andsingle sheets to pass thereon. A large note stack 430 (due to thegreater weight of the stack) can compress the spring finger downwardagainst its spring force a distance greater than a smaller note stack428 is capable. A heavy stack may even flatten (e.g., press the springfinger 434 to its lowest position) the waffle rail arrangement. However,a large stack of notes is less likely to immediately curl downward. Thatis, large note stacks may not require any wavy configuration.Nevertheless, the bottom note of a large stack would still contact thetransverse portion 431. The arrangement of the rail fingers 432, 434permits wavy impartation to those note stacks which are most in need ofa wavy configuration. That is, the flexible rail fingers 432, 434, dueto the greater vertical extension of the spring fingers 434, areoperative to create a greater wavy impartation to a smaller (thinner)stack of notes. The amount of waviness created in a stack can bedirectly proportionate to the size of the note stack.

FIGS. 58–59 show additional views of note stacks exiting a presenter. Acrowned roller arrangement is also shown. The crowned roller 394includes a convex taper 395 and a plateau 397. FIG. 58 shows a smallnote stack 428 (which may be a sole sheet) receiving a large wavyimpartation. FIG. 59 shows a large note stack 430 receiving a small (ifany) wavy impartation.

FIGS. 58 and 59 also show that fingers of the flexible rails 422, 423can be differently positioned. For example, as shown in facing FIG. 58,rail 422 has its spring finger 435 to its right side, whereas rail 423has its spring finger 434 to its left side. Thus, the spring fingers434, 435 are intermediate the flanged fingers 432, 433. Othercombinations of flanged finger and the spring finger arrangements can beused. For example, an arrangement of flexible rails may include railshaving only the configuration of the rails 423.

FIG. 60 shows an additional view of a presenter gate arrangement 401having a gate 403 in a closed position.

FIGS. 61 and 62 show additional angled views taken from opposite sidesof a dual cam arm arrangement. Cam arms 409, 411 are shown. An end ofeach cam arm includes a pivot point 413. The pivot point 413 cancomprise a pivot pin or a pivot shaft hole. The cam arm is operative topivot about the axis of the pivot point 413 as the cam arm pin 417 ridesupward in the angled slot of an actuator lever.

FIG. 63 shows a perspective view of a shell 440 of a presenter housingframe.

Thus the exemplary embodiments achieve one or more of the above statedobjectives, eliminates difficulties encountered in the use of priordevices and methods, solves problems, and attains the desired resultsdescribed herein.

In the foregoing description certain terms have been used for brevity,clarity and understanding, however, no unnecessary limitations are to beimplied therefrom because such terms are intended for descriptivepurposes only and are intended to be broadly construed. Moreover, thedescriptions and illustrations herein are by way of examples and theinvention is not limited to the exact details shown and described.

In the following claims, any feature described as a means for performinga function shall be construed as encompassing any means known to thoseskilled in the art to be capable of performing the recited function andshall not be deemed limited to the particular structure shown herein orequivalents thereof.

Having described the features, discoveries and principles of theinvention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated, and theadvantages and useful results attained; the new and useful structures,devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems,operations, methods and relationships are set forth in the appendedclaims.

1. An apparatus including: a cassette, wherein the cassette is removably mountable in an automated banking machine dispenser module, wherein the cassette is operative to hold media therein, wherein the cassette includes a flexible door, wherein the door is operative to automatically open during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module, wherein magnitude of door openness is proportional to cassette insertion distance, wherein the door includes a push pin engaging portion, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to engage a dispenser module push pin to cause opening of the door during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module, wherein the engaging portion includes a female portion,  wherein the female portion is adapted to receive a male portion of the push pin,  wherein the door is permitted to be opened by the push pin when the door is closed during initial insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module,  and wherein the door is prevented from being fully opened by the push pin when the door is at least partly open during initial insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module.
 2. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein when the door is closed during initial insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module, then the female portion is operative to receive entry of the male portion thereinto permitting opening of the door by the push pin.
 3. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein when the door is at least partly open during initial insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module, then the female portion is inoperative to receive entry of the male portion thereinto, preventing further opening of the door by the push pin.
 4. The apparatus according to claim 3 wherein the cassette cannot be fully inserted into the dispenser module when the door is at least partly open during initial insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module.
 5. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the door comprises a tambour door having integrally attached parallel strips, wherein the tambour door is operative to move in two substantially perpendicular directions.
 6. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the engaging portion is operative to be relatively pushed against the push pin to cause opening of the door during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module, wherein the female portion is operative to mate with the male portion throughout opening of the door.
 7. The apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the female portion comprises an opening centrally located on the door, and wherein the male portion comprises a pin head.
 8. The apparatus according to claim 7 wherein the door includes a guide channel, wherein when the door is closed the channel is operative to receive and guide the male portion toward the female portion.
 9. The apparatus according to claim 8 wherein when the door is partly open during initial insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module the channel is inoperative to receive the male portion.
 10. The apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the engaging portion includes a lip adjacent the female portion, wherein the lip comprises a face, wherein the face is operative to engage a body portion of the push pin throughout opening of the door.
 11. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the cassette comprises a currency cassette, and wherein the currency cassette is operative to hold currency therein, and wherein the door is operative to automatically close during removal of the cassette from the dispenser module.
 12. The apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising an automated banking machine dispenser module including a push pin, wherein the cassette includes a cassette housing, wherein during opening of the door the cassette housing moves into the dispenser module while the door and pin remain stationary relative to the dispenser module.
 13. The apparatus according to claim 12 wherein the door is fully open when the cassette is fully inserted into the dispenser module.
 14. The apparatus according to claim 13 wherein the push pin includes a pin head and a pin body, wherein the door includes an opening and a flange, wherein at least a portion of the pin head is operative to enter the opening during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module, wherein the flange is operative to engage the pin body to cause opening of the door during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module.
 15. A method of opening the door of the apparatus recited in claim 1, comprising: (a) engaging the door with a push pin of a dispenser module; (b) partly inserting the cassette into the dispenser module a first insertion distance to cause the door to partly open; (c) subsequent to (b), further inserting the cassette into the dispenser module to cause the door to further open; (d) subsequent to (c), fully inserting the cassette into the dispenser module, wherein the door is fully open when the cassette is fully inserted into the dispenser module.
 16. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the cassette includes a lid, wherein the lid is operative to pivot about an axis located adjacent a first end of the cassette between an open position and a closed position, and wherein the door is adjacent the first end of the cassette.
 17. An apparatus including: a cassette, wherein the cassette is removably mountable in an automated banking machine dispenser module having a push pin with a pin head and pin body, wherein the cassette is operative to hold media therein, wherein the cassette includes a tambour door, wherein the door is operative to automatically open during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module, wherein magnitude of door openness is proportional to cassette insertion distance, wherein the door includes integrally attached parallel strips, wherein the door is operative to move in two substantially perpendicular directions, wherein the door includes a push pin engaging portion, wherein the engaging portion is operative to engage the push pin, wherein the engaging portion includes an opening,  wherein the opening is operative to receive therein the pin head during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module, wherein the engaging portion includes a lip adjacent the opening,  wherein the lip comprises a face,  wherein the face is operative to be relatively pushed against the pin body to cause opening of the door during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module,  wherein the lip is operative to engage the pin body throughout opening of the door, wherein the door includes a guide channel, wherein when the door is closed the channel is operative to receive and guide the pin head toward the opening, wherein when the door is partly open during initial insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module the channel is inoperative to receive the pin head.
 18. The apparatus according to claim 17 wherein the lip extends beneath the opening.
 19. The apparatus according to claim 17 wherein the cassette comprises a currency cassette, and wherein the currency cassette is operative to hold currency therein, and further comprising an automated banking machine dispenser module including a push pin, wherein the push pin includes a pin head and a pin body, wherein when the door is closed the channel is operative to guide the pin head toward the opening, wherein the pin head is operative to mate with the opening, wherein the lip is operative to engage the pin body while the pin head mates with the opening, wherein engagement of the lip and pin body causes opening of the door during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module.
 20. An apparatus including: a currency cassette, wherein the cassette includes a flexible door, wherein the door is adapted to automatically open during insertion of the cassette into an automated banking machine including a push pin, wherein the door is adapted to automatically close during removal of the cassette from the machine, wherein the door includes an opening, wherein the opening is adapted to mate with a first portion of the push pin, wherein the door includes a lip extending adjacent the opening, wherein the lip is adapted to engage a second portion of the push pin while the opening mates with the first portion, wherein the ability to fully open the door is dependent on magnitude of initial door openness during initial insertion of the cassette into the machine. 